Harps Food Stores' Clay Williams talks Retail Produce Manager Award
Harps Retail Produce Manager Award
Clay Williams, produce manager for Harps Food Stores in Fayetteville, Ark., started in the industry right out of high school and quickly realized it was exactly where he wanted to be.
“I like getting out there and offering a service to the community,” Williams said. “I think now with the whole COVID thing we’ve really gotten to see how important our jobs are. Ever since this started, I can’t tell you how much me and my team have been complimented by our customers, like ‘Thank you for being here,’ ‘Thank you for what you do,’ and it’s really kind of been inspiring for all of us ...
“A lot of times when you work in a grocery store you just think you’re just working in a grocery store, but with this whole situation going on across the nation, you really get to see ... you’re supplying a vital need to your community, so I really enjoy that part of it,” Williams said.
This year, the United Fresh Produce Association recognized Williams as part of its Retail Produce Manager Awards program, which celebrates 25 of the best produce managers in the country.
Mike Roberts, director of produce operations for Harps, said Williams brings dedication and a great attitude and in recent years especially has stood out for his work in implementing process improvements and finding ways to run his department more efficiently.
“He’s an excellent leader of his department, he’s grown some other produce managers for us, just an all-around outstanding person, and hopefully one day he’ll be sitting in my chair when they put me out to pasture,” Roberts said. “It’d be great for somebody like Clay with all his experience and all the experience he’ll have in the future.”
To get to know more produce managers recognized by United Fresh this year, check out the following articles.
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